Compressors valve unloader types

Constant-speed control should be used when gas demand is fairly constant. With this type of control, the compressor runs continuously but compresses only when gas is needed. Tiiree methods of unloading the compressor with this type of control are in common use (1) closed suction unloaders, (2) open inlet-valve unloaders, and (3) clearance unloaders. The closed suc tion unloader consists of a pressure-actuated valve which shuts off the compressor intake. Open inlet-valve unloaders (see Fig. 10-89) operate to nold the compressor inlet valves open and thereby prevent compression. Clearance unloaders (see Fig. 10-90) consist of pockets or small reservoirs which are opened when unloading is desired. The gas is compressed into... 

This type of compressor will continue to compress the air volume in the down-stream system until (1) some component in the system fails, (2) the brake horsepower exceeds the driver s capacity, or (3) a safety valve opens. Therefore, the operator s primary control input should be the compressor s discharge pressure. If the discharge pressure is below the design point, it is a clear indicator that the total down-stream demand is greater than the unit s capacity. If the discharge pressure is too high, the demand is too low and excessive unloading will be required to prevent failure. 

Load factor is particularly important with air-cooled machines where sustained full-load operation results in an early build-up of deposits on valves and other parts. This build-up increases the frequency of maintenance required to maintain compressor reliability. Intermittent operation is always recommended for these units. The frequency and duration of unloaded operation depends on the type, size, operating pressure of the compressor. Air-cooled compressors for higher than 200-psig-pressure application are usually rated by a rule that states that the compressing time shall not exceed 30 minutes or less than 10 minutes. Shutdown or unloaded time should be at least equal to compression time or 50 per cent. 

The second way to unload a reciprocating compressor is with valve disablers. Most of the unloaders you have on your compressors are likely of this inferior type. They typically consist of steel fingers, which are pressed down through the valve-cap assembly. The fingers prevent the valve plate from moving. These valve disablers are far less costly than an adjustable clearance pocket. They may be used on both the crank and head ends of the cylinder. They can reduce the gas flow through a cylinder to zero. 

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